No, not all mezcal bottles have a worm. While ‘worm’ mezcal is one of the most famous forms of mezcal, it is not the only type. Mezcal is a spirit made from the agave plant in the same way that tequila is made from blue agave, but the term “mezcal” encompasses a much wider variety of agave species and production methods.
While there is a subset of extremely high- quality mezcal called “con Gusano”, which translates as “with Worm,” not all bottles of mezcal contain a worm. The practice of including a worm in mezcal bottles began as a marketing ploy and has been in practice since the 1940s.
Typically, bottles of mezcal with a worm will bear the label “con Gusano”, so consumers can easily distinguish them from other types of mezcal. For most people, the worm does not contribute to the flavor of mezcal in any way, and is simply a sight gag added for interest.
That said, the presence or absence of a worm should not be relied on to determine the quality of a bottle of mezcal; a bottle of mezcal with a worm can be high quality, while a bottle without a worm could also be high quality.
Which mezcal brands have a worm?
Numerous mezcal brands have a worm, including Chichicapa, Ikal, El Silencio, Peloton de la Muerte, and Muchote.
Chichicapa is a mezcal brand from Oaxaca produced from Espadín agave, and nearly all bottles of Chichicapa have a large worm at the bottom. Ikal is a mezcal distilled in Santiago Matatlán by the Cortés family, and each bottle has a medium-sized worm at the bottom.
El Silencio is another mezcal made in Santiago Matatlán, and it also has a medium-sized worm in each bottle. Peloton de la Muerte is a brand of mezcal crafted by a family-run company, and each bottle has a medium-sized worm at the bottom.
Finally, Muchote is a mezcal made with non-traditional roasted agave, and a small worm is placed at the bottom of each hand-cut glass bottle.
Overall, the types of worms that appear in various mezcal brands vary in shape, size, and color (typically beige or yellow). Some mezcal brands include larger worms than others, although it’s important to note that the presence of a worm does not affect the flavor of the mezcal.
Why do they put the worm in mezcal?
The worm often referred to as ‘gusano rojo’, or red worm, is a species of larva endemic to certain regions of Mexico. It is often found living inside agave plants, which are the main ingredient for making mezcal.
When mezcal is being made, some producers also add a few worms to the bottle, in order to signify the agave’s traditional essence. The practice has been used for centuries, and although it is not necessary to add a worm to the bottle, it is still thought to serve as a reminder of the mezcal’s rich history.
Some also believe that its presence is symbolic of fertility, since the agave plant has traditionally been used as a fertility symbol. Additionally, the addition of the worm is thought to bring good luck, due to the belief that including it in the mezcal is associated with good fortune.
Ultimately, while the worm isn’t necessary to the mezcal-making process, it is seen as a symbol of traditional essence and good luck, and it gives drinkers a tangible understanding of the drink’s heritage.
Does tequila still have a worm in the bottle?
No, tequila no longer typically has a worm in the bottle. This stems from a marketing campaign that began in the 1940s when two Mexican companies, Mezcal and Tequila, were competing for more sales. Mezcal included a worm in the bottle to differentiate it from Tequila and create a unique selling point.
Tequila immediately responded by creating its own bottle with a worm.
It was believed the worm increased alcohol content, but no proof exists to support this claim. Instead, the widespread notion likely came about because the worm was found in Mezcal bottles—a drink known for its potency.
Despite the myth, the worm is mostly used as a marketing gimmick.
Sales from bottles with worms were initially successful, but manufacturers had to stop due to quality-control issues. Complaints of worms dying in bottles and contaminating the drink prompted manufacturers to remove them altogether.
Today, you won’t typically find them in bottles, although you may find the worm in mezcal brands if you look hard enough.
When did they stop putting worms in tequila?
The practice of using worms in tequila bottles began in the late 1940s when a very successful tequila producer, Jacobo Lozano Páez, added them to his bottles of “mescal”—what would become tequila—to distinguish his brand from others.
The worms added a unique flavor to the drink, as well as a fun factor that other brands didn’t offer.
During the mid-1900s, worms in tequila bottles became incredibly popular and tequila began to be associated with worms even though only certain brands added them to their bottles. Then, in the early 1970s, the Tequila Regulatory Council, an organization of producers, declared that this type of adulteration was no longer allowed.
And by the end of that decade, all producers had stopped adding the worms to their bottles.
Today, it’s extremely rare to find any tequila bottles with worms in them. It’s still possible, however, as there are a few very small, artisanal producers in Mexico that continue this tradition.
What kind of tequila has the worm in it?
The tequila that is known for having a “worm” in it is actually a mezcal, not a tequila. The mezcal that is traditionally served with a “worm” is a type of Joven tequila, which is essentially a young, unaged mezcal.
It is not clear where the tradition of adding a worm to the tequila began, but it is thought to date back to the 1940s. The “worm,” or gusano, is actually the larva of the moth Hypopta agavis, which lives on the agave plant.
While the tradition of having a worm in the bottle of mezcal was likely invented to increase sales, some believe that the worm has some sort of hallucinogenic effects. Whatever the case, it is important to note that most reputable brands of tequila do not include a worm in the bottle, and it is solely a specialty of mezcal.
Did Jose Cuervo ever have a worm in it?
No, Jose Cuervo has never had an actual worm in it. This urban legend likely stems from the fact that the original tequila bottles would sometimes have a “gusano” (Spanish for “worm”) inside the bottle.
This gusano was actually a larva from a moth that was attracted to the agave plant — the plant used to make tequila — and not an actual worm. The gusano is said to be a symbol of fertility and of the earth, and has even been a sign of good wealth and luck in some cultures.
Despite this, the gusano was not considered a valued item, and in many cases was thrown away. Furthermore, the gusano was only ever found in cheap, low-quality tequila, and never in well-made, premium tequila like that of Jose Cuervo.
What is floating in my tequila?
Floating in tequila is not something that is commonly seen and is not typically desirable, as it may be a sign of improper filtering or low-quality tequila. When it comes to what is actually in the tequila, it could be any number of things, most of which are not dangerous.
It could be yeast, citrus pulp, fibers (such as from the agave plant), or sugars that have not been completely dissolved. These are all natural ingredients found in tequila and pose no real danger if ingested.
If the floating particles have an unfamiliar color or odor, it is best to discard the tequila and purchase a new bottle from a trusted source. Other than that, enjoy your tequila!
Is the mezcal worm edible?
When it comes to the question of whether the mezcal worm is edible, it depends on who you ask. Some people believe the worm that is sometimes found at the bottom of the mezcal bottle is edible and is a sign of a high-quality mezcal.
Others claim that the worm found in mezcal has no nutritional value and should not be eaten. The mezcal worm is actually a caterpillar called the Hypopta agavis. Generally, it is not recommended that you eat it for health reasons; however, some cultures view the mezcal worm as a delicacy.
While it won’t harm you to eat it, it would be wise to consult with a doctor or health professional first.
What happens when you eat the worm?
Eating a worm is generally considered to be an unappealing activity and can even be dangerous to your health. In the worst-case scenario, consuming worms may lead to a parasitic infection, which can cause a range of symptoms depending on the type of infection.
Common symptoms may include abdominal pain, cramps, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, fever, and fatigue. If left untreated, a parasitic infection can lead to more serious complications, including organ damage.
Eating a worm can also cause digestive distress and possibly lead to food poisoning. In addition, a worm can block the digestive tract, causing pain and a potential obstruction that may require medical treatment.
All in all, eating a worm is not advisable and could potentially cause harm to your health.
Are you supposed to eat the worm at the bottom of tequila bottles?
No, you are not supposed to eat the worm at the bottom of tequila bottles. Tequila does not traditionally contain a worm of any sort and it is usually only seen in related spirit bottles like mezcal.
While the worm in mezcal does not have any particular health benefits, some believe it to be a symbol of fertility and testosterone. It is not particularly harmful to ingest, since it is usually already dead, but it will not provide any positive effects either.
In fact, eating a worm from the bottom of a bottle of tequila is likely to be an unpleasant experience and can even contribute to an upset stomach. Therefore, it is not recommended to eat the worm at the bottom of tequila bottles.
Is it safe to eat worms?
No, it is not safe to eat worms. While some people do consume earthworms for various medical purposes, there is a risk that worms pose to humans in their natural environment. Worms may contain parasites and bacteria, some of which can cause serious illnesses in humans.
Eating worms can also lead to nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Furthermore, there are no scientific studies to suggest that consuming worms has any noticeable health benefits in humans. Therefore, it is generally not considered safe to eat worms.
What does the worm in tequila do to you?
Ingesting a worm in tequila can cause a range of digestive and other health issues, as the worm itself is often preserved in alcohol and contains a range of chemicals. The worm itself is a juvenile form of the agave insect, and can cause physical issues if ingested.
Symptoms can range from nausea to headaches, vomiting, and diarrhea. Long-term effects may include stomach cramping and potential allergic reactions. Drinking high amounts of tequila containing worms may also lead to alkaloid poisoning, characterized by dizziness, weak muscles, and confusion.
In severe cases, this poisoning can cause paralysis or death. Therefore, it is best to avoid drinking tequila containing worms, as it is not worth the risk of these potential health concerns.
Is the tequila worm alive?
No, the tequila worm is not alive. It is an inedible part of some Mexican drinks, most commonly tequila, that is added seemingly as a gimmick or joke item. The most common type of tequila worm is the gusano rojo, also known as the agave worm.
Generally, it is not actually a worm at all, but a larval or pupal form of the moth genus Hypopta agavis. The larva of this moth actually feeds on the plant agave, which is one of the primary ingredients in tequila.
The larvae are dried, sometimes smoked, and then added to bottles of tequila as a novelty item. Although the tequila worm is not alive, it is said to possess mystical powers, depending on which country you are in and what legend you believe.
What is difference between mezcal and tequila?
Mezcal and tequila are both distilled alcoholic beverages made from the agave plant, native to Mexico. Both have a smokey, sweet flavor and are usually served neat or in cocktails. The main difference between mezcal and tequila is the production process.
Tequila is exclusively made with the Blue Weber agave, is double-distilled, and always made in and around the Mexican city of Tequila. Mezcal, however, is traditionally made with several different kinds of agave, is single-distilled, and can be made in any region of Mexico.
Mezcal often incorporates more of the smoky flavor of the agave plant than tequila, although this flavor can be quite strong. Mezcal is typically served room temperature, whereas tequila is often served chilled with salt and a lime.
Tequila is also considered much smoother and less complex than mezcal.
What do you eat with mezcal?
Mezcal is a form of Mexican alcoholic spirit that is traditionally distilled from various species of agave plants. It has a distinctive smoky flavour, and is often served neat or in a strong cocktail.
It can also be enjoyed with a variety of side dishes and meals.
Some popular items to eat with mezcal include tacos and other Mexican-style dishes which feature tortillas, beans and/or corn. For example, a classic combination is tacos with spicy chorizo sausage and cheesy melted cheese.
Other Mexican dishes such as burritos, tostadas, quesadillas and fajitas also go well with mezcal.
Fruit and cheese plates are also popular accompaniments to mezcal. They bring out the smoky flavour of the mezcal and provide a healthy balance to the drinks. Fruits such as limes, oranges and mangoes work well, as do fresh cheeses such as queso fresco, cotija and panela.
In addition, mezcal can be enjoyed with a variety of snacks, such as nuts, seeds, popcorn, and chips with salsa. Since mezcal has a strong flavour, it’s best to stick with lighter snacks that won’t overpower its taste.
Overall, mezcal pairs well with a variety of traditional Mexican dishes and accompaniments, as well as lighter snacks. With its smoky, almost spicy flavour, mezcal is the perfect beverage to enjoy with tacos, burritos, tostadas, fruit, cheese and snacks.
Why do Mexicans put scorpions in tequila?
The practice of putting scorpions in tequila actually doesn’t have a widely agreed upon origin. Some say it’s for a curious taste sensation, others believe it might be for medicinal purposes due to some believe that the venom of the scorpion has healing properties.
It is believed to have originated in the town of Tequila, Jalisco, Mexico, though other places where this practice is commonly observed are Mexico City, Guanajuato, and Veracruz. There aren’t many places that do this today, but this type of tequila can still be found in some shops in Mexico.
Some preparation techniques include serving the scorpion in a clear shot glass next to a shot of tequila, while others submerge the scorpion in the tequila itself. Additional herbs and spices such as chili, lemon juice, and salt can be added to make the tequila more appetizing.
The tequila’s taste will vary depending on how much of the ingredients you choose to add. Though the idea of having scorpions in tequila may seem strange, you can actually find a wide range of tequila flavors depending on your preference.
What does an agave worm turn into?
An agave worm, also known as a mezcal worm, is the larval form of the Hypopta agavis moth, which is found in the maguey plant. Historically, the presence of an agave worm in the bottle of mescal or tequila indicated the quality of the drink, as it was found in higher quality bottles.
The larvae are harvested and dried before they are used as a flavoring in some spirits and liqueurs, often mezcal and tequila. They are usually blended or blended with other ingredients in the bottle.
As they are exposed to heat, they turn into ‘gusano de maguey’ or ‘gusano rojo’, meaning ‘red worm’. As they dry out, they become a hard, curled-up segment with a hard surface and a papery, crisp thickness.
This process is called desiccation and, over time, the gusano gives the product smoky flavors, as well as a unique criollo taste.
Agave worms are believed to have some nutritional and medicinal benefits, especially for those with colitis, gastroenteritis, hepatitis, and constipation. However, this has not been clinically proven.
Overall, an agave worm turns into a dried, red-colored caterpillar, which gives flavor and a unique criollo taste to the product. While there are some believed health benefits associated with consumption, this has yet to be proven.
Why does tequila make me sick?
Tequila can make you sick for many reasons, ranging from the amount of alcohol that you are consuming to having an intolerance to the agave plant used in the distillation of tequila. One of the main causes of feeling sick after drinking tequila is from drinking too much of it.
Alcohol is a diuretic, meaning it makes you urinate more often, which can cause dehydration, headache, and nausea. If you’re drinking tequila for the first time, start with a low-proof beverage and drink it slowly over the course of a few hours.
This gives your body time to adjust and process the alcohol.
Another reason you may feel sick after drinking tequila is because you have an intolerance to it. Most tequilas are made with agave, a type of plant that some people have adverse reactions to when consumed.
If you develop a headache or tummy ache after drinking tequila, you may have an intolerance to the plant material used in the distillation process.
Lastly, eating or drinking something sugary before or after drinking tequila can make you feel sick. Mixing tequila with sweet soda or juice can cause a nasty stomach ache and encourage dehydration. Eating sugary foods after a night of drinking can also cause the body to lose fluids more rapidly, leading to headaches, nausea, and fatigue.
To avoid feeling sick after drinking tequila, start with a low-proof beverage and drink it slowly, pay attention to signs of an agave intolerance, and abstain from mixing sweet beverages with tequila.
